Are background checks required for an adoption?

In New York, background checks are required for all prospective adoptive parents. The New York Department of Social Services Regulations requires that all individuals aged 18 years and older living in the same household as the adoptive parent(s) must undergo a criminal background check. This check includes a review of state and federal criminal history databases, state registry of Child Abuse and Maltreatment, and a national search for any possible criminal proceedings. All applicants must also submit to fingerprinting for a full criminal background check. This process allows for checks to be performed on both the New York State and Federal levels. Fingerprints are compared against databases to identify previous criminal charges. The State of New York also requires that all prospective adoptive parents undergo a spousal/partner background check, in addition to a review of any applicable sexual offense and child abuse registries. If any information from the background checks reveals any history of child abuse, this may be grounds to deny the adoption application. Additionally, any applicants who have not been US citizens for at least 5 years may be denied as well. All adoptive parents must agree to ongoing supervision of their home environment and safety practices on behalf of the adoptive child. The adoptive parent(s) must also provide proof that they have read and understand the New York State Adoption Handbook. This handbook is an important resource for prospective adoptive parents as it outlines the legal and administrative requirements, as well as the rights and responsibilities of adoptive parents.

Related FAQs

What are the rules for international adoption?
What is an adoption subsidy?
Are there special considerations for LGBTQ parents adopting a child?
What is a closed adoption?
What are the laws regarding adoption records?
What is the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children?
What is a post-adoption contact agreement?
What is a post-adoption contact agreement?
What are the rights and responsibilities of adoptive parents?
What is the difference between an adoption attorney and an adoption agency?

Are background checks required for an adoption?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts